Cuernavaca South Of Mexico City, Mexico Travel Guide
Mexico City International Airport (MEX) is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours drive north of Cuernavaca. MEX is the busiest airport in Mexico and serves as the main hub for international flights. Major international airlines serve MEX, including American Airlines, Delta, United, Air Canada, British Airways, KLM, Lufthansa, Iberia, and Aeromexico.
Toluca International Airport (TLC) is about 1.5 hours drive northwest of Cuernavaca. TLC handles some domestic flights and a limited number of international routes, mainly from the U.S. With VivaAerobus. Cuernavaca General Mariano Matamoros Airport (CIV) mainly serves domestic flights and private aviation. Commercial routes are limited, often charters or very specific domestic connections. It is not a main option for international travelers.
MEX offers extensive facilities across its multiple terminals, including restaurants, shops, car rental agencies, currency exchange, and lounges.
TLC is a smaller airport that provides basic services, including car rental, food options, and ATMs. Facilities are more limited compared to MEX.
From MEX to Cuernavaca, Pullman de Morelos offers direct bus service from Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. The journey takes about 2 hours.
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International chains like Hertz, Avis, Budget, Europcar, and National have offices. These are often near bus terminals or major hotel zones.
Local rental agencies also operate. It is always wise to compare their offerings with international providers for the best fit.
Buses are the main mode of intercity travel in Mexico. They are highly efficient and comfortable. Pullman de Morelos connects Cuernavaca directly with Mexico City (Airport, Taxqueña, and other stations), Taxco, and other destinations within Morelos.
A valid driver's license from your home country is usually sufficient for tourists; an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended as a supplement. Mexican auto insurance is legally required and highly recommended. Your home country's policy is unlikely to be valid in Mexico. Purchase coverage from a Mexican insurer or an U.S./Canadian insurer that offers Mexican coverage.
The main highway from Mexico City to Cuernavaca (Autopista México-Cuernavaca 95D) is a modern, well-maintained toll road. Within Cuernavaca, roads vary from well-paved avenues to cobblestone streets in older areas. Traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours.
Cuernavaca is an inland city, so sea or river travel methods do not apply. The city does not have access to sea or river ports for commercial passenger transport. There are no ferry services, cruise ports, or river transportation options for passengers.
For air departures, the tourism tax (DNI) is typically part of your international air ticket price. If you entered Mexico by land and paid this fee separately, keep the receipt. No other specific exit fees are generally charged for tourists departing Mexico.
For departures by bus from Cuernavaca, arrive at the bus terminal at least 30-45 minutes before departure. This time allows for ticket purchase or luggage check-in. Have your ticket and identification ready for the journey.
Allow ample time at the airport for check-in and security to ensure a stress-free departure. Having documents ready expedites the process.
Arrive at the bus terminal with enough time to purchase tickets or handle luggage, ensuring you do not miss your scheduled bus.
Keep your passport, FMM form, and boarding pass/bus ticket readily available for all departure checks.
Cuernavaca is an inland city, far from any sea or major navigable river. As such, ferry services and cruise ports do not apply to direct travel to or from Cuernavaca. Travelers rely on air or land transportation.
River transportation options do not exist for passenger travel to Cuernavaca. The city's geography does not support such modes of transport for commercial purposes. Therefore, immigration procedures at seaports are also not applicable for direct Cuernavaca visitors.
Main for international visitors, mostly via Mexico City (MEX).
Efficient bus network across Mexico, and self-driving options with specific requirements.
Not applicable for direct travel to Cuernavaca due to its inland location.
